Galatasaray fans have erupted in celebration as the club secured what has been dubbed the biggest signing in Turkish football history—Victor Osimhen, the prolific Nigerian striker, has joined the Istanbul giants on loan. The move, described by Sky Sports as a game-changer for Turkish football, has set the stage for a new era at Galatasaray, the most popular club in Turkey with over 30 million passionate supporters.
The deal, which has been finalized and approved, sees Osimhen join Galatasaray on loan until June 2025. The financial details of the transfer reflect the magnitude of the signing: Galatasaray will cover Osimhen’s salary, estimated at €9-10 million, but there is no buy option or obligation included in the deal. His release clause has been negotiated down to €75 million, with Napoli retaining an option to extend his contract until 2027. Additionally, Osimhen has secured a break clause for January, allowing him the flexibility to move if a top club comes calling.
The impact of Osimhen’s arrival was immediate. Galatasaray’s Instagram following, which stood at around 12 million before the announcement, skyrocketed to 15.8 million just hours after the signing was confirmed. This surge in followers is a testament to Osimhen’s global appeal and the excitement his signing has generated among Galatasaray’s fan base.
In his first interview after the move, Osimhen expressed his excitement at joining the Turkish giants, particularly highlighting the club’s passionate supporters and the opportunity to reunite with his former Napoli teammate, Dries Mertens. “Galatasaray has an incredible fan base! One of the biggest clubs is Galatasaray. I am so happy to play with Mertens again,” Osimhen said, reflecting on his new chapter.
READ ALSO: Beyond Limits FA Confirms Non-Participation in 2024/25 NPFL Season
The transfer saga leading up to Osimhen’s move to Galatasaray was filled with twists and turns. Throughout the summer, Napoli stood firm on a €120 million-plus release clause, which deterred several top European clubs. Paris Saint-Germain had agreed on terms with Osimhen, but negotiations collapsed after Napoli demanded over €100 million. Al-Ahli also came close, agreeing on an €80 million package, but the deal fell apart when Napoli raised the asking price after learning of Ivan Toney’s transfer fee. Chelsea made offers, including a loan with an obligation to buy, but failed to reach an agreement. Osimhen’s agent, Roberto Calenda, made it clear that his client was not interested in a temporary move, which further complicated negotiations with other clubs.
Ultimately, it was Galatasaray who managed to secure the striker’s services, marking a significant coup for the club and Turkish football. Sky Sports Chief Reporter, Kaveh Solhekol, emphasized the importance of the signing: “He will be the biggest star in Turkish football. It is a big boost for Turkish football to get the African Footballer of the Year. Victor Osimhen going to Galatasaray is some story.”
As Galatasaray fans eagerly await Osimhen’s debut, the football world will be watching to see how this historic signing will influence the club’s fortunes and Turkish football at large. With the transfer officially complete, Osimhen is set to light up the Süper Lig, bringing his electrifying talent and goal-scoring prowess to one of Europe’s most passionate footballing nations.
